A sudden approach from Leicester City for Enzo Maresca has sent shockwaves through the English Football League Championship. It is, unfortunately, a move that feels equal parts logical and desperate. Some murmurings are comical at the East Midlanders' expense. While other comments are a sad indictment or LCFC's current standing. However, for discerning Foxes fans, Maresca remains the 'perfect' candidate precisely because he holds the blueprint to their recent identity.
"Leicester City have been in contact with former promotion winning boss Enzo Maresca over a shock return to the King Power Stadium."Mirror
The former Chelsea boss's tenure at King Power Stadium was defined by a ruthless, possession-based philosophy that secured the C'ship title and a destined return to the top flight with a clear, modernised tactical soul inrecord-breaking fashion. It is a season in which Leicester languish in 16th at present; whilst the search for cohesive direction under interim management is a big ask.
Ideal for Leicester City
Meanwhile the Italian represents a potential 'plug-and-play' solution. He is, of course, a man who understands the under pressure organisation's inner workings. He possesses the authority to instantly command a dressing room that still bears his fingerprints while instilling belief and rigidity.
Why it won't happen
​However, the romantic notion of a return is destined to remain just that. Despite a reportedly lucrative short-term package offered by the Leicester board, Maresca is almost certain to reject the advance.
Why so? His recent tenure at Chelsea included a Club World Cup title and Champions League qualification: consequently elevating his stock into the continental elite. To return to the Championship now would be a significant professional regression that effectively undoes the prestige he gained at Stamford Bridge.
This reality is not easy for a member of the Blue Army fan base to admit. Furthermore, with heavy links as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Maresca's gaze is likely fixed upward.
The 45-year-old has outgrown salvage operations of the second tier. LE2 is obviously a fond chapter of his past - but probably not the setting for his future.